Eagles at Falcons
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, MercedesBenz Stadium, Atlanta
TV: Fox
Tipico line: Falcons by 3 1⁄2 Eagles’ keys to victory: Attacking the interior of Atlanta’s offensive line should be Philadelphia’s top priority. Not only did the Falcons lose Pro Bowl C Alex Mack in free agency, starting LG Josh Andrews was recently placed on injured reserve. The Eagles will need DT Fletcher Cox and DE Derek Barnett to lead the way on defense by getting pressure on QB Matt Ryan, who makes his debut in Arthur Smith’s offense having played zero snaps in the three preseason games.
Falcons’ keys to victory: Offensively, Atlanta will need to find ways to move the chains until the team can prove capable of running the football. Look for rookie TE Kyle Pitts to be involved in the short passing game, and expect a heavy dose of play-action as the Falcons try to neutralize the Eagles’ pass rush. On defense, the Falcons should disguise blitz packages in order to keep dual-threat QB Jalen Hurts from getting comfortable. The front seven must also be disciplined in its rush lanes and not lose track of Hurts.
Matchup to watch: Falcons WR Calvin Ridley vs. Eagles CB Darius Slay. Ridley’s route-running ability is too much for most defensive backs to handle, but “Big Play Slay” is a worthy opponent. Both players have great top-end speed, which should make for an entertaining battle. Slay must ensure Ridley doesn’t get behind him, or it could be a tough day for the Eagles secondary.
Who wins? Atlanta gets off to a fast start before struggling in the second half. Despite a late rally from the Eagles, the Falcons hold on for a two-point win at home.
Falcons, 23-21